ddh

If I wasn't in the spa industry, was younger and was looking for a spa I might conclude Infinity "looks decent" but I'd suspect it was because my eyes would be fixated on the price tag. In the end I think it's a spa that will cost twice as much per month to operate than a well insulated spa. That obviously depends on where you live but I'd plan on an extra $40 to $80/month depending on your situation so fator that in when you see the price tag. I'd also expect it to be a haul away spa in 6 to 9 years depending on how much babysitting I'd want to do. At this point in my life I concentrate more on value than simply price tag so its not for me but for a true DIYer who wants to get his feet wet with his first spa I understand the appeal of the price tag and the fact that they've dressed it up enough to make it look ok (just like all new cars look nice but down the road the differences show...). Here is a previous thread started by someone who services that type spa (which is made by Infinity in their Texas plant) that I think is informative on both sides with a couple owners chiming in who seem to understand what they purchased. http://www.poolspaforum.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=10797 Value IS a function of the price tag. It's what you get in return for what is paid. Would I pay Costco's regular price for that tub? Probably not. Would I pay the sale price? Probably. I have been reading these threads, including the one you posted, for months now. As it's stated in other posts, it's like comparing a Kia to a BMW. How many people get a BMW for their first car? Other Infinity Spa owners with whom I have corresponded stated they have seen very little change in their electric bill (with added insulation) albeit they are in warmer climates like me. The particular link you posted discusses a Keys Backyard spa. Unless I misunderstood the Infinity rep, the Laguna and Sunpeak are manufactured in Johnson City TN. I was just stating my opinion on what I will probably choose, based on my own research. There are several people who are considering a Costco tub for their first purchase. I was sharing my initial experience with Infinity for those in the same situation as me. When I contacted Infinity, I received information from them instead of a "high pressure sales pitch" that I have received from my local dealers. With the information I received from them I was able to determine that the Costco tub, Laguna, (on sale at the time) was not the tub for me, and I didn't make the purchase.

Roger, Your explanation/info makes perfect sense! While I hope I don't regret my decision, I will look at my new tub as getting my feet wet, so to speak, in the world to hot tubs. I think I now have the right expectations. Thanks again. Anthony, I am in the same boat too. I live in Austin Tx. I called Infinity and spoke with a very nice lady. She very helpful, answered all of my questions and sent me more information about both the Laguna and Sun Peak. She also mentioned that they have service techs in our area (as well as most metropolitan areas) for service/warranty issues. She informed me that Costco usually runs a sale in the May and end of July. Because of the information she gave me, I would prefer the Sunpeak and I will wait if/when it goes on sale again. (She didn't say it would, Costco determines that. But that's the pattern they have run). As I am sure you have, I have read countless threads about people arguing the quality of Costco spas. My own conclusion about Infinity is that it's a decent tub and you can add some extra insulation to improve the heating efficiency. Please come back to the board with pics, and your order/delivery/setup experience once you have it.

Hello all, I am in the Austin Tx area and doing research for installing a vinyl inground pool. Does anyone know of a reputable installer? I seem to find (through my research) who NOT to go with. I am also considering one of the DIY kits. But I would like some references of installers in case I get in over my head in the middle of the project.

ChrisandAngela, how's it going with Premier? I live in Leander and am researching an inground pool. I am back and forth between fiberglass and inground vinyl. I was a little surprised by Joel C's comment (orig post) about the fiberglass being a little more than the gunite. I thought one of the pro's about fiberglass is the cost of installation. Anyway, how's the progress?